1-2 players, horizontal game
Atari Corp., for the Atari Lynx
$14.99
Stereo? No

OVERVIEW:

Daleks, Replicants, Terminators, Robotrons, Xybots -- the robots are at it
again. EarthBase 26-B9, a remote station in the Federation's intelligence
network, has been completely overrun by the alien Xybots in a surprise attack.
Recovery of this base is of the highest priority; since you are the closest
agent available, you must infiltrate the station, battle the Xybot forces, and
stop the Master Xybots from taking over. NOW!

Storyline aside, XYBOTS is a Lynx adaptation of the Atari Games' arcade
title. One or two players must travel through the station's levels, as seen
from a first-person 3D view. As you wander through the maze, you can grab
coins, keys, and weapon enhancements, all while fighting the various Xybot
forces. Your battlesuit will protect you, but it loses energy through time and
from attacks; if it runs out, you are captured and the game ends. Reach the
exit, and you have an opportunity to buy more equipment before going even
deeper, featuring trick walls, transporters, and even more dangers.

GAMEPLAY:

Though a few recent Lynx games have been disappointing, XYBOTS is happily
not continuing the trend. This is a respectable version of the game, with all
the features of the original. The enemy comes in many different forms, using
various defenses while firing on your position. Your gun fires unlimited
shots, and an energy-draining zap can temporarily freeze the Xybots. The main
action is seen from directly behind your fighter, and a second screen showing
the level layout and status information is available. Every tenth level or so
is a fight with a Master Xybot, but the main game remains maze-running and
robot-blasting. Temporary enhancements such as robot locators and extra
firepower are available, but financial frugality will help you survive later.

The game is not perfect, however, since the Lynx version is a little easier
than the coin-op. The Xybots are not too bright, and often spend time waiting
until you are in range before attacking. They are still dangerous, but you
will rarely have to worry about being overwhelmed. You also start with 35
coins, enough to stay well-armed for three or four levels. As a result, the
game may seem to start off slow for more experienced players, but Warp Exits
allow travel to the higher stages quicker. Overall, XYBOTS on the Lynx remains
formidable, but don't be too surprised at the initial progress you make.

GRAPHICS/SOUND:

With XYBOTS, the Lynx once again pulls off game graphics that look almost
completely identical to the arcade. The station mazes are spartan, drawn with
identical wall panels, but enemy Xybots and other game items are well-animated
and detailed. Other visual extras such as the teleporter and the transition
between stages have been duplicated exactly. The only shortcoming is that
rotating your view is done with a 90-degree "snap", which can be a little
disorienting.

Sounds are also very faithful, with the few blasts and explosions of the
original copied closely. The mechanical Xybot voices have been removed, but
in their place are several quality techno-rock background tunes. Though
enjoyable, they can be turned off from the title page if desired.

SUMMARY:

XYBOTS on the Lynx is a solid translation, presenting an acceptable
version of the game on the go. While the difficulty has been scaled back
slightly, there is still more than enough of a challenge to keep the typical
player back for more.